pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska

As a resident of Alaska, you get to experience the renowned Alaska State Fair, which is one of the best in the country. Additionally, the tourism industry is a major contributor to the states economy, with many visitors coming to Alaska to see its natural beauty and participate in outdoor activities such as fishing and hunting. Many areas of the state are only accessible by boat, plane, train, or floatplane and cannot be reached by car. One way to protect yourself from mosquitoes in Alaska is to use insect repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors. When determining what cities are good for your personality, life situation, and personal preferences, there are many factors to consider including climate, cost of living, community, job opportunities, population makeup, activities, and things to do. In addition to outdoor activities, there are also many community events and festivals that bring folks together throughout the year. Thanks in advance! Whether youre hiking through the towering peaks of the Alaska Range, fishing for wild salmon in a glacial stream, or simply gazing at the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you, Alaska has a way of making you feel alive like nowhere else on earth. The states abundant natural resources, including oil, natural gas, seafood, and natural wonders are the main drivers of its economy. The suns view so far north is unbelievable. Alaska is surprisingly far from the rest of the United States. Youll experience a shorter summer, but it wont be a jarring difference. (Top 10 Reasons), Do not use scented lotions, soaps, or shampoos, Use a headnet for multi-day backpacking or float trips, Dont wear dark colors, as mosquitoes are attracted to them; wear khaki or neutral shades, Tight woven cotton shirts and pants are better than porous synthetics. Taking note of the rent, Alaska is only slightly cheaper than the entire U.S. Because Alaska does not have an income tax, the state earns its revenues through a tax burden placed on businesses. In general Sitka has a high cost of living, especially with regards to groceries and medical care. As with many of the items on this list of pros and cons of living in Alaska, this largely depends on where you live. There is some truth to this idea that is percolating around the Internet. Try Premium; Log In Sign Up. One of the things that makes Alaskan culture so interesting is its focus on the natural environment. Should you move to Sitka, Alaska? They are talking snobby by Alaska standards, which would probably translate to an average person anywhere else. 3. The result is your tax burden is potentially higher than it would be in some states. Here are some reasons why Alaska is so attractive to so many. There are times when the weather and the costs of living here will be challenging. That means you are going to be doing a lot of blowing, shoveling, and plowing to keep your driveway and walkways clear. In fact, according to a survey conducted by the Alaska Housing Finance Corporation, nearly 75% of Alaska residents say that they know their neighbors well and feel a strong sense of community in their neighborhood. According to statistics from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, the state is home to over 20 different species of mosquitoes, with the Alaska mosquito being the most prevalent. Get out there and meet people and you'll meet some very interesting people. Despite the vastness of Alaska, Alaskans overall have a deep sense of connection to one another and a strong sense of state pride. Some refer to mosquitoes as the states official bird, given their ubiquity and ability to survive in harsh environments. If you are down-to-earth, then you will love the easy-going flow of Alaska. One of the challenges of living in Alaska is the difficulty of obtaining fresh produce. Sufferers from SAD experience malaise, anxiety, and deep depression. The top industries in Alaska include oil and gas, fishing, tourism, and government. In addition, 71.8% of the homes in Alaska are placed somewhere between $108,722 and $435,285 in value. This is higher than the national median salary, which was $45,790 during the same time period. If you are thinking about living in Alaska sometime in the future, then here are some pros and cons to consider before you finalize that decision. 7. However, this is not the case. Because Alaska is the least densely populated of the United States, you can unwind and relax in complete silence if you choose. Darkness here can be a real challenge. Automatically get personalized recommendations on where to move. That means your tax burden is potentially higher than what it would be in some other states. Cities Near Sitka: Port Alexander, Tenakee Springs, Prince of Wales census subarea, Hoonah-Angoon census subarea, Angoon 56% 12% lower than the US average. That means you can have some extra cash to save for a new home, college tuition costs, or the outdoor toys you will want to use as you start exploring the millions of acres of wilderness. This disadvantage is especially noticeable if you happen to have a family emergency going on outside of the state. We almost all use Helly Hansen Impertec. They are required to pay property taxes, but the fact that they can save on state income tax and sales tax is a considerable saving for the residents. You have to be careful, though, since it is wilderness, and while they have a good Search and Rescue, sometimes they never find people who get lost, besides danger of slides, injuries. You can limit this disadvantage by finding a home in or near Anchorage because there is a natural gas infrastructure that gives you access to this affordable fuel. The wildlife is as incredible as they say, 4. The cost of housing in particular is high in the state, with the average home price in Alaska being nearly twice the national average. This can be a difficult adjustment for newcomers living in Alaska. Cordova. It is held in Palmer, Alaska, in the late summer and dates back to 1936. Pros & Cons Overview Jobs80% Housing85% Affordability60% Safety60% Amenities60% Diversity90% Education85% Commute100% Is Sitka, Alaska safe place to live? Up to 30% OFF Sale - Limited Time Learn More. Because of its remote location, much of the produce consumed in the state must be shipped in from other parts of the country or even abroad. In 1971, temperatures drop to a record -80F at Prospect Creek Camp. You get an opportunity to embrace a slower pace in life that focuses on individual dreams. 4BD are closer to $2500. Some parts of the state see nearly 24 hours of daylight during the season. $341,600 85% higher than the US average. Hunting options include grouse, hare, mountain goat or brown bear, hunting in the rainforest region. Blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, raspberries, salmonberries can be found on Alaskas hiking trails. Located in Denali National Park. Contrary to what many people believe, living in Alaska is actually quite expensive with the cost of living nearly 30% higher than the national average. Required fields are marked *. On the other hand, a resource extraction economy can also be vulnerable to changes in the market or shifts in consumer demand. Popularity and image, which are always expressed through money and possessions, lead people to have materialistic values and be concerned about the status quo. pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska By On June 22, 2022 In psle 2021 kiasu parents fresno unified school directory on pros and cons of living in sitka, alaska But if you shop carefully, use your rewards cards, and with a bit of creative budgeting, this possible disadvantage may not apply to you, even if your household lives paycheck to paycheck. It is important to consider these factors when looking at salary information for Alaska. Venture to Alaska if you want to see the Aurora Borealis. There are many options to choose from when looking for a relaxing natural hot spring to unwind in. At the same time, you are experiencing an average low that is sub-zero. - The average commute for residents of Anchorage is 8.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Sitka. Still, i definitely don't want to live somewhere with snobby people. While Alaska has many incredible natural wonders, they are not always easy to get to. The payment in 2017 was $1,100 per person. Then there are the Northern Lights that you can see frequently dance across the sky all winter long. It is thought that the Inuit invented dog sleds to transport supplies and food to their people. Population: 2,683. They are really an issue only from the second week in June to the last week in July. One of the things that makes Alaskas air and water so clean is its location. 4. With a strong feeling of purpose in our nation and a sense of contentment, Alaska residents are generally at peace and very happy with the place they call home. For example, it is illegal to consume marijuana in public, and it is illegal to drive while under the influence of marijuana. The state is home to many species of wildlife, including brown bears, moose, and bald eagles. The temperatures dropped to a record of minus 80F in 1971 at Prospect Creek Camp. During the average year, Anchorage sees over 30 inches of snow from January to March. Every winter, thousands of Alaskans suffer from SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder. Anchorage never had a venue large enough for famous musicians to performuntil recently. In fact, there are so many different types of seafood to choose from in Alaska that you could eat a different type of fish or shellfish every day for a year and still have some leftovers. Some folks I know use it toward a vacation every year. Hotel costs, gas, food, etc., need to figure into your decision. Rent is only slightly cheaper than in other areas of the country. Air quality fines are usually more than $20,000, but that is a small fraction of the slot machines daily take in the ships casino. You can take many flights from the continental 48 states to Alaska, but the distance you need to travel becomes surprisingly great after you make the move. If you are considering residency in Alaska, you need to weigh both the pros and cons to determine if Alaska is right for you. Posted by: Category: Uncategorized . Fuel costs are much higher in Alaska. In fact, you can compare it with any of the most beautiful spots in the world because of its uniqueness and beauty. Cell phone service is absolutely awful in Alaska. Another popular destination for wildlife viewing in Alaska is the Katmai National Park and Preserve. Compare Now. If you decide to move in or around Anchorage, the weather may feel somewhat temperate, but you will experience a shorter summer. June 21 has almost 19 hours of daylight in Anchorage, making it the longest day of the year. This is due in part to the states remote location, which makes it difficult to access certain goods and services. One thing Alaskans are very proud of is our clean air and water quality, I can confidently say that the air and water here are absolutely pristine. Daylight is nonexistent in the northernmost regions for months at a time, which creates a physiological shift in disposition and mood. 2. In Alaska, the sense of community is strong. One of the things that makes Alaskas seafood so amazing is its location. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Alaska is 29.5% higher than the national average. The frost-free growing season in Alaska lasts for about 100 days. Meeting start whenever the people involved feel like making them happen. There are many features we have already discussed that draw people to this beautiful state. See gorgeous pictures and amazing stories of happy Premier Pups Maltese dogs living in Hobart Bay, Alaska. The fair includes nightly concerts, games and carnival rides, and much food unique to the state. The decision to not impose a state sales tax in Alaska is rooted in the states history and its reliance on natural resource extraction for revenue. If you want to work as a freelancer or be self-employed, then you must become a business when you live in the state. 09-28-2015, 02:38 PM rntim Location: sitka, Alaska 279 posts, read 362,335 times Reputation: 381 I live in Sitka. After all, as they say, laughter is the best medicine, and theres no shortage of dark humor to be found in the Land of the Midnight Sun. The second largest industry in Alaska is tourism. You might pay $6 for a gallon of milk instead of $3. Alaska has sunshine for almost 20 hours a day. Anchorage is the largest city in Alaska, was almost 300,000 people calling at their home. And many more reasons why the residents of Alaska find it irresistible. In fact, according to the Alaska Department of Natural Resources, Alaska has the most state park land per resident of any state in the country, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Based on the FBIs statistics, Alaska is second to Tennessee as the nations most violent state. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Your email address will not be published. Oh you adventure seeker you With its rugged wilderness, stunning natural beauty, and endless opportunities for outdoor exploration, Alaska is the perfect place to let your adventurous spirit run wild. From the natural beauty of the Aleutian Islands, which has dozens of volcanoes, to the snow-covered peaks of the Denali National Park, Alaska is both overwhelming and blissful at the same time. When you move further north in the state, thats when the cold really becomes an issue. Alaska has the longest coastline of any state in the United States, at over 6,600 miles long. Even though the economy of Alaska is fueled by the oil and gas industry, you will discover that the cost of gasoline is much higher than it is in the continental 48 states. The annual car insurance premium in Alaska is $1,180. There are several opportunities to pursue your sport of choice during the summer as well. Median listing prices for other top cities in Alaska include $270,000 for Fairbanks, $339,900 for homes in Wasilla, and $250,000 for homes in Kenai. ), Why Is Newport Beach So Expensive? Another option is to invest in a good mosquito net, which can help keep the bugs at bay while youre trying to sleep. When you live in Alaska, the outdoors is no longer an afterthought. Iditarod mushers will take you on a dog sled ride, share stories about the race, and let you pet and cuddle with the sled dogs. Additionally, the absence of a state income tax can make it more difficult for the state to respond to economic downturns or other financial challenges. Consider yourself as and adventurous sort that can forgo some creature comforts in return for epic natural bounty? Alaska ranks high as one of the most popular cruising destinations in the world. This expense is one of the most significant costs that you will face as a household if you decide to move here. Looking to fill those lungs with some fresh, clean air? This means that locally-grown fruits and vegetables may only be available for a few months out of the year, further limiting options for consumers. Lets take Fairbanks, Alaska, as an example here. It is important to note that costs are higher in Alaska because of transportation and its isolation. For those who already live in Alaska, it is not surprising that their state was ranked #1 as the happiest place to live in America by a well-being study conducted by Gallup-Healthways in 2015. Thinking about living in Alaska, eh? I'm fine with rain, wind, snow, etc. The higher median salary in Alaska is likely due in part to the states high cost of living, as well as the presence of higher-paying industries such as oil and gas. This is particularly true for fresh produce, which must be shipped to the state from far-off locations. . COST OF LIVING: Sitka: Alaska: USA Overall: 116.6: 116.5: 100 Grocery: 146.4: 141.7 . The cost of living in Alaska is higher than the national average. Driving from one point to another is not something most people stress about these days. Alaska ranks second to Wyoming for the highest rate of suicide in the country. Based on the 2017 cost of living study by the Anchorage Economic Development Corporation, monthly utility costs in the state are high. If you are a married couple with four children, then you received a $6,600 PFT payment. Watching these animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. People turnover a lot. What many people do not realize is that Japan actually occupied two Alaskan islands during World War II for 15 months. McKinley. No doubt, this would attract many! Sitka cost of living is 116.6. In Sitka there are a lot of bars and coffee shops. When youre living in Anchorage, the temperature tends to hover around 70 in July and August. 3. After living in the state for a full calendar year, residents will qualify for what is called the PFD payment. Sitka also has a wider range of water -based activities compared to Skagway. The climate is severe, and the strain of life can demand a heavy price. Visitors and residents can view them between September and late April. Mountain View in Anchorage is rated one of the most diverse places to live in the United States. Here are a few of these traditions valued by the residents of the state. 9. To make things worse, Alaskan private company employees spend more than $99 over the national average for healthcare costs for one person. One of the negative effects of the darkness in Alaska is the impact it can have on mental health. Copyright © 2023 Embrace Someplace | Privacy Policy | As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. 1. Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, Health Care Cost Institute Report of 2016, Colorado Vs. California (Whats The Difference? 3. Spokesperson for the group said they have spent the last few months considering the pros and cons of moving forward this year despite the risks and uncertainty associated with the . In fact, Alaska has some of the strictest environmental regulations in the country. The cost of housing, in particular, is higher in Alaska than in many other parts of the country. Alaska experiences long, dark winters and short, sunny summers. Even the sidewalks can be dangerous after a snowfall. There is not a state income tax that is withheld from your paycheck. The Alaskan highways overall road quality and their feeder routes are good, except for some summer road construction. Cordova made our list as one of the best places to live in Alaska for many reasons, and the low crime rates, poverty levels, low unemployment rate, and reasonable housing prices all contributed. In fact, according to the EPA, over 90% of the air quality monitoring sites in Alaska have air quality that is classified as good or moderate,. Other cities to consider include Wasilla, Kenai, and Sitka. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary in Alaska was $77,060 in 2021. In fact, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, about 40% of Alaskas population lives in rural areas that are considered frontier or remote.. Have you ever heard about the rumor that the government will pay you to live in Alaska? However, you must be aware of what you are eating, as some might be poisonous. That money applies to every person in your family, including the kids. One of the things that makes Alaska so special is the way it stirs your soul. According to the Bureau of Vital Statistics, approximately 400 people a year come to an untimely death in Alaska, making it the second most deadly state in the country behind Mississippi. With the national average being $323, you can see how food can get expensive in Alaska. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau shows that the vacancy rate for rental units in Alaska is just 4.6%, which is well below the national average of 6.9%. This can make fresh fruits and vegetables more expensive and less readily available than in other parts of the country. This park is famous for its brown bears, which can often be seen fishing for salmon in the parks rivers. Another thing that makes Alaska so incredible is the sense of freedom that you feel here. Pros and Cons of Living in Idaho Alaska's social life consists of activities and events very particular to their culture. In other words, its the Arctic Circle of flavor. Subsistence hunting occurs throughout Alaska all year long and is a central focus of the traditions and customs of many of the cultural groups in Alaska. The low population density is immense, located so far north, and not connected to the mainland. The average high temperature for the city in the month of January is 0. Find flights to Alaska from $177. Fairbanks is the home to 31,000 people. The typical household in Sitka earns $81708 a year, compared to the national median of $67,500.Nearly 29.1% of households earn less than $50,000 a year compared to 39% national rate. Including the: Pacific Ocean Gulf of Alaska Bering Sea Chukchi Sea Beaufort Sea Despite these challenges, there are efforts underway to improve access to fresh produce in Alaska. Coastal towns collect more than $60 million in revenue through the docking fees and other taxes. That gives you plenty of time to start exploring the 300 miles of trails that are around this one city. First of all, Alaska is a state of mountains. Sitka Housing Options Homes For Sale New Homes The moist air from the ocean is forced upward by the mountains, causing heavy rainfall in many parts of the state. The stunningly beautiful state of Alaska is not for the faint of heart. Yes, Alaska is generally considered to be a very tax-friendly state for residents. The states natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing destination for retirees. Military, Federal jobs, and Oil subsidize housing costs which drives up the price. A typical cruise ship produces thousands of gallons of raw sewage, garbage, wastewater, and oily bilge water from their engines. The terrain attracts a hardy, adventure-seeking crowd, who will tell you the states unique beauty and abundant wildlife make the cold temperatures worth it. Pros than cons to living in Sitka offers residents a sparse suburban feel and most residents own their.. Magic of the 20 highest mountain peaks in States hiking, and economic Living in Alaska Pros and Cons Pros You will experience the great outdoors in Alaska in a way that you never have before. You will not find better summers anywhere else in the world. In addition to lack of houses to own, many Alaskan communities also face a lack of available rental units. As someone who has lived in Alaska for most of my life I can say there are some amazing things about living in Alaska and some things everyone should know before moving here. This can be a physically demanding and time-consuming job depending on where you live and how much it snows. However, it is important to note that marijuana remains illegal under federal law, and there are some restrictions on its use in Alaska. In addition to national parks, there are also many other opportunities for wildlife viewing in Alaska. The Pros & Cons of Living in Ashland vs. Bend, The following errors occurred with your submission. The cost of groceries and health care are also higher in Alaska compared to the national average. Breathtaking scenery. 17 out of the 20 highest peaks in the United States are found here. Sitka is on an island and the only access is by plane or boat. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED HomeMindset.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon website (amazon.com amazon.in etc) and any other website that may be affiliated with Amazon Service LLC Associates Program. Another thing that contributes to the strong sense of community in Alaska is the fact that many people rely on one another for support in daily life. As a result, many people end up living in small, crowded homes or temporary housing, such as trailers or cabins. 8. As a local in Alaska, I can say with 100% certainty (according to my taste buds) that the fresh seafood here is absolutely top-notch. Situated in the far north, Alaska is surrounded by cold, clean ocean waters that are teeming with a wide variety of fish and shellfish. When you live in the state, then you are 15 minutes from being out in the wild, no matter where your home happens to be. Despite their notorious reputation, however, not all Alaskans see mosquitoes as a problem. Soon after the ships hull was ruptured, Prince William Sound was filled with oil. With the long, dark winters, its not uncommon for roads and sidewalks to be covered in ice and snow, making everyday tasks all the more treacherous. Some of these longstanding traditions may seem odd to outsiders, but they are captivating and essential to the residents living throughout the rural villages and more populated areas in Alaska. A deadline that is more of a suggestion then a finite term. There is nothing that you can do to change this perspective. While bear attacks always make the headlines, they are few compared to the number of people who die of exposure in the extreme cold. The high cost of living in Alaska can be a challenge for many people, particularly for those on fixed incomes or low salaries. Once you live here for a year or two, it is not unusual to encounter someone youve never met, but they already feel like they know you. According to the Alaska Bureau of Vital Statistics, on average, 140 people die from freezing to death each year. The cost of living in Alaska is really high. You are going to be exposed to the Great Outdoors all of the time. This makes it the 47th most populous state in the United States. Outdoor activities are literally endless for the adventure-seeking individual. It also gives you a chance to embrace the small-town charm that dominates the culture in the state. The vibrant display of colors pinks, oranges, reds along with the shadows of the mountain ranges and forests, seem almost to touch the sun. You can fish for trout, salmon, halibut, and crab. That makes it a paradise for those who love to go hunting and fishing. 1. This means that the states economy is heavily dependent on its natural resources, which can be a good thing but also has its challenges (outside of the obvious ones like massive negative contributions to climate change). Fly from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines, Delta, American Airlines and more. Revathi Constructions is a Leading Construction Company in Trichy. Alaska offers you plenty of small-town charm, even in the big cities. There is a higher cost of living to consider before moving to the state. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Alaska will cost you somewhere between $1,000 and $1,169 per month, or less in some smaller, scenic areas like Kenai. For those who do love playing in the snow, you wont find a better place to learn a new sport. Pros; it is on an island. Alaska has some of the best air quality in America, 10. With Alaskas 6,640 miles of coastline, tsunamis can happen. The seafood, the hiking, clean, crisp air, the Northern Lights, no pollution! In Alaska, there are two seasons, road construction and winter. Whether youre in the mood for a hearty fish stew, a delicious salmon salad, or simply a steaming plate of steamed crab legs, youll be able to find it all in Alaska.